Overview:

Thekkady, home to the Periyar National Park, is Kerala's premier destination for wildlife and spice plantation tours. It is particularly famous for its unique boat safaris where you can view wild animals from the safety of a boat on an artificial lake.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary & Lake: The sanctuary is a renowned tiger reserve and home to elephants, sambar deer, and rare flora.

⚜ What to do:

➣ Boat Safari: A signature 1.5 to 2-hour cruise on Periyar Lake. It is the only sanctuary in India where you can view wildlife at close quarters from a boat.

➣ Bamboo Rafting: A full-day eco-tourism program combining a forest trek with a 3-hour rafting session in the dense forest.

➣ Tiger Trail: An overnight trekking and camping program led by former poachers who now act as guides and protectors of the forest.

⚜ Spice Plantations & Nature Spots: Thekkady is often called the "Spice Capital" due to its vast plantations of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon.

➣ Abraham's Spice Garden: A 12-hectare organic farm where you can learn about spice cultivation and Ayurveda.

➣ Elephant Junction: Offers ethical interaction with elephants, including feeding, washing, and short rides.

➣ Gavi: A pristine eco-tourism spot about an hour from Thekkady, ideal for off-the-grid trekking, birdwatching, and canoeing.

➣ Chellarkovil Viewpoint: Known for its "God's Own Balcony" watchtower, offering panoramic views of waterfalls and the plains of Tamil Nadu.

⚜ Cultural & Martial Arts: Evenings in Thekkady are best spent at cultural centers in Kumily town.

➣ Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: Famous for Kalaripayattu, one of the oldest martial arts in the world. Shows typically run from 6:00 PM to 7:00.

➣ Mudra Cultural Centre: Offers Kathakali performances, where you can arrive early to watch the elaborate makeup process. Shows are usually held between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

⚜ How to reach: Thekkady (home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary) is located high in the Cardamom Hills. Like Munnar, it has no direct rail or air access. You will likely head to the town of Kumily, which is the gateway to Thekkady.

➣ By Air:

• Cochin International Airport (COK): The most common entry point, about 145 km away.

• Madurai Airport (IXM): Actually, the closest airport at about 140 km. It is a great option if you are coming from Tamil Nadu or want a slightly shorter hill climb.

➣ By Train: You will need to get off at a nearby station and take a bus or taxi for the final mountain leg:

• Kottayam Railway Station (KTYM): The best and nearest major station, about 110 km away.

• Changanassery Railway Station: About 95 km away, slightly closer but with fewer transport options compared to Kottayam.

• Madurai Junction (MDU): About 140 km away; a good choice for those coming from Chennai or Rameshwaram.

➣ By Road: The drive to Thekkady is famous for its "Ghat roads" and views of rubber and spice plantations.

• From Bangalore: There are several overnight AC Sleeper buses (KSRTC Swift and private operators like Kallada or Greenline). The journey takes 10-11 hours and usually goes via Dindigul and Theni.

• From Kochi (Ernakulam): Frequent KSRTC and private buses run daily. It's a 5-hour journey.

• From Munnar: A very popular tourist route (approx. 90 km). It takes about 3 hours by taxi or bus through beautiful winding roads.